BORN 100 years ago tomorrow, Frank Burley's memories span virtually the entire 20th century.
Having lived in Huddersfield all his life, his earliest recollections are of his grandfather shoeing horses next to their Birkby home.
He is also one of the handful of people who will remember the glory days of Huddersfield Rugby Club at Spaines Road, Birkby.
The Fartown side of 1914 is thought of as one of the greatest to play the game.
"I remember the Australians coming over in 1911. I used to go up there and sit down before the match started. There was a proper atmosphere," he said.
The secret to living a long and healthy life is, he believes, to have a good time.
"I've enjoyed life and I'm still enjoying it," said Mr Burley.
He does not need a hearing aid or wear glasses.
The eldest of six children, Mr Burley left school at 13. He spent his working life at Hopkinsons Valves and the former ICI plant along Leeds Road, where he remained for 37 years before retiring.
Mr Burley met his wife, Mary, on a trip to Blackpool.
They were married at Bradford Register Office on Boxing Day in 1936 before moving into their marital home where Mr Burley has lived ever since.
Sadly, Mary died about 10 years ago.
A motorbike fanatic in his youth, Mr Burley would take his wife for regular rides out to the country.
The couple had two sons, Malcolm and Howard.
Mr Burley also has two grandchildren Louise and Alex and a great grandson Fabian.
He is best known for his long association with both the Longwood Mechanics' Hall and the Longwood Sing.
He worked tirelessly for both for about 60 years.
He was treasurer and then secretary on each committee.
Actively involved in the Trades Union movement, he joined the Amalgamated Engineering Union in his teens and is still a fully paid-up member of Amicus. Colne Valley MP Kali Mountford will be at the celebrations tomorrow to wish the lifelong Labour supporter a very happy birthday.
Mr Burley will celebrate the big day surrounded by family and friends.
